How to Reach Lake Como Boat — Directions & Tips (2025)
Find the fastest routes to Lake Como’s main boat & ferry piers in Como, Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio. Trains from Milan, airport links, buses, parking, and smart tips to board stress-free.
Plan Your CruiseQuick Overview
Main piers: Como (Piazza Cavour/Como Lago), Bellagio (Lungo Lario Manzoni), Varenna (Imbarcadero), Menaggio, Cadenabbia/Tremezzo, Lenno (for Villa del Balbianello). Best hub for mid-lake: Train to Varenna-Esino then short walk to the pier → quick ferries to Bellagio or Menaggio.
Mid-Lake Triangle (Fastest)
Milano Centrale → Varenna-Esino (~65 min) → 5–8 min downhill walk to Varenna pier → car/passenger ferry to Bellagio/Menaggio (10–15 min).
Como Town & Western Shore
Milano Cadorna → Como Lago (~1 h) or Milano Centrale → Como S. Giovanni (38–49 min). Both stations are a short stroll to the Como ferry terminal.
Option 1 — From Milan by Train (Fast & Frequent)
Best for day trips without a car; departures every 20–60 minutes depending on line.
- Milano Centrale → Varenna-Esino (R/RE via Lecco): ~1:03–1:10. Walk 5–8 min to Varenna pier.
- Milano Centrale/Porta Garibaldi → Como S. Giovanni (Trenord/Regionale): ~38–49 min. 10–12 min walk to pier.
- Milano Cadorna → Como Lago (Trenord): ~1:00. Station is ~2–4 min from the ferry terminal at Piazza Cavour.
- Tickets: Buy at machines or apps; validate paper tickets in green machines before boarding.
Tip
For Bellagio/Menaggio, the Varenna-Esino route avoids transfers and puts you right at the mid-lake ferries.
Option 2 — Ferries & Hydrofoils on Lake Como
Types of Boats
Battello (slow boat): scenic, many stops. Aliscafo (hydrofoil): faster, seat assignment, small luggage only, surcharge. Traghetto (car ferry): frequent links between Bellagio–Varenna–Menaggio–Cadenabbia.
Buying Tickets
Purchase at imbarcadero ticket windows, machines, or selected online vendors. Keep tickets handy for checks; hydrofoil tickets are specific to departure.
Frequency (in season)
Mid-lake car ferries every ~20–30 min; Como↔Bellagio services at least hourly (more at peaks); winter timetables are reduced.
Option 3 — Buses & Lakeside Walks
Buses connect lake towns when boat times are sparse or to reach hill villages. Lakeside promenades are flat and pleasant near Como, Varenna and Menaggio—allow extra time for photos.
- C30/C32 Como ↔ Bellagio via Nesso/Torno (scenic, winding).
- C10 Como ↔ Menaggio ↔ Dongo/Gravedona along the western shore.
- Carry small change or buy tickets at bars/tabacchi near stops; some routes support contactless or apps.
Photo Tip
Walk to Punta Spartivento (Bellagio) for 3-arm views; in Varenna, the Passerella degli Innamorati boardwalk is golden at sunset.
From Airports (MXP · LIN · BGY)
Malpensa (MXP)
Malpensa Express → Milano Cadorna/Centrale (35–55 min) → Trenord to Como or Varenna.
Linate (LIN)
Shuttle/bus to Milano Centrale (~25–35 min) → trains as above. New metro links may help; follow airport guidance.
Bergamo (BGY)
Airport bus to Milano Centrale (~50–60 min) → train to Varenna-Esino/Como.
With Luggage?
Hydrofoils limit large bags. Use station lockers (e.g., Milano Centrale) or choose slower boats that accept luggage.
Seasonality
Peak schedules April–October; November–March runs are fewer but reliable on main routes—always check the latest timetable.
Driving, Parking & Access
Roads & ZTL
Narrow lakeside roads; avoid historic-center ZTL zones (Como/Bellagio cores). Follow blue Parcheggio signs.
Parking Ideas
Como: Autosilo Valmulini (P+Bus) or lots near Villa Olmo. Bellagio: Lido & ferry lot. Varenna: Station/upper-town lots.
Accessibility
Many piers have ramps; gap/step varies with water level. Ask staff for boarding assistance and accessible boat options.
Families
Strollers fine on car ferries and most battelli; hydrofoils have tighter aisles. Keep kids seated during docking.
Practical Tips
Arrive Early
Reach the pier 15–25 minutes before sailing; mid-lake ferries can have queues on weekends.
What to Bring
Layers (breeze on deck), hat/sunscreen, water, and cash/card for tickets. Comfortable shoes for cobbled lanes.
Choose the Right Boat
Hydrofoil for speed; battello for views and luggage; car ferry for hop-between mid-lake towns.
Weather & Wind
Summer thunderstorms can delay boats briefly; winter is colder on deck—use indoor salons when available.
Getting There Cheatsheet
Closest Stops to Piers
Como Lago (for Como pier) • Como S. Giovanni (10–12 min walk) • Varenna-Esino (5–8 min walk) • Bellagio (town pier) • Menaggio (waterfront).
Typical Times
Milano Centrale → Varenna-Esino: ~65 min • Milano Cadorna → Como Lago: ~60 min • Centrale → Como S. Giovanni: ~38–49 min.
Boarding
Buy/scan ticket at the imbarcadero. Separate lines for hydrofoil vs. regular boats; keep ID for concessions.
Apps & Tools
Trenord/Trenitalia for trains; Google Maps for transfers; check “Navigazione Laghi” timetables for boats.
Best Photo Spots
Punta Spartivento (Bellagio) • Varenna promenade • Villa del Balbianello from the water.
Day Planning
Triangle hop: Varenna → Bellagio → Menaggio → back, or Como → Bellagio out & hydrofoil return to save time.
Ready to Sail Lake Como?
Pick your route, check the nearest pier, and book a cruise that fits your day—mobile tickets and flexible options.
Book Lake Como Boat Tickets